Kwanzaa Means "First Fruits"

Kawanzaa's origins began in Africa. The name Kawanzaa comes from the phrase "matunda ya kwanza" which means "first fruits" in Swahilli. Kawanzaa is not a religious holiday it is a cultural one.

Kawanzaa is based on Seven Principles, they are listed below. The seven basic principles contribute to the values of family, community, and culture among African Americans and other Africans throughout the rest of the world.

Some of the gifts that are given to children during this holiday are books and Kwanzaa symbols (list below) are always included. They re-emphasize the African traditions and history.

The colors of Kwanzaa are black, red and green. These colors are used in African baskets, cloth patterns, art objects and harvest symbols.

Some Kwanzaa recipies are on the different web sites that I have listed. There are also tips on decorating your home for Kwanzaa. I also have three wonderful recipes that I will be glad to share with you if you e-mail me. They are African Vegetable Stew, Jamaican Chicken and Beene Cakes.

Hope you have a very Happy Kwanzaa!

Dec. 28, 2000 to Jan .1, 2001 NGUZO SABA (Seven Principles)

Dec. 26, 2000 UMOJA (Unity) Dec. 27, 2000 KUJICHAGUUA (self-determination) Dec. 28, 2000 UJJMA (Collective Work & Responsibility) Dec. 29, 2000 UJAMMA (Co-operative Economical) Dec. 30, 2000 NJA (Purpose) Dec. 31, 2000 KUUMBA (Creativity) Jan. 01, 2001 IMANI (Faith)

The Seven Symbols of Kwanzaa

Mazoo (The Crops) The fruits of our labor Mikeka (The Mat) Symbolic of African tradition & history Kinara (The Seven Lamp Candle Holder) The stalk, our ancestors Muhindi (The Corn) Our children Mishumaa Saba (The Seven Candles) The seven principles Kikombe cha Umoja (The Unity Cup) Oneness of purpose Zawadi (The Gifts) Encouragement and reward

Go To Page: 1

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic